Engage With The Endemics
Experience Sri Lanka’s top birding hotspots in 14 days. 35 endemic species, rare migrants, and stunning habitats from rainforest to highlands
Avian Encounters: 14 Day Engage With The Endemics Tour
Katunayake to Kitulagala
Arrive in the morning at Bandaranaike International Airport, Katunayaka, and transfer to Kitulgala. In the afternoon, enjoy birding around the lush surroundings of Kitulgala, followed by dinner and an overnight stay.
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Kitulagala
After breakfast, enjoy a full day of birding in the Kitulgala Forest Reserve, known for its rich lowland rainforest habitat. Search for endemic species such as the Serendib Scops Owl and Chestnut-backed Owlet along forest trails. The area offers excellent opportunities for close birdwatching and nature photography. Return for dinner and overnight stay in Kitulgala.
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Kitulagala
After breakfast, spend the full day birding in the Kitulgala Forest Reserve, home to several of Sri Lanka’s endemic species. Explore its lush trails and riverbanks in search of rare and colorful birds. Return for dinner and an overnight stay in Kitulgala.
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Kitulagala to Singharaja
After breakfast, spend the morning birding around Kitulgala, targeting any missed specialties. Then proceed to Sinharaja, one of Sri Lanka’s most important biodiversity hotspots. In the afternoon, explore the forest edges for early sightings of endemic species. Enjoy dinner and an overnight stay in Sinharaja.
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Singharaja
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion into the Sinharaja World Heritage Wilderness Area, Sri Lanka’s most renowned rainforest. Explore its rich biodiversity while searching for mixed-species bird flocks and elusive endemics. Return in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay in Sinharaja.
Watch out for
Singharaja
After breakfast, embark on a full-day excursion into the Sinharaja World Heritage Wilderness Area, Sri Lanka’s most renowned rainforest. Explore its rich biodiversity while searching for mixed-species bird flocks and elusive endemics. Return in the evening for dinner and an overnight stay in Sinharaja.
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Singharaja to Embilipitiya
After breakfast, leave for Embilipitiya and settle in. In the afternoon, embark on an exciting jeep safari through Uda Walawe National Park, known for its large elephant herds and diverse birdlife. Explore the park’s open landscapes and waterholes for wildlife sightings. Return to Embilipitiya for dinner and an overnight stay.
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Embilipitiya to Thissamaharama
After breakfast, enjoy birding around Uda Walawe National Park before proceeding to Tissamaharama. In the afternoon, visit the Kalametiya Bird Sanctuary to explore its rich coastal birdlife. Return for dinner and an overnight stay in Tissamaharama.
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Thissamaharama
After breakfast, embark on a jeep safari in Yala National Park to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, enjoy birding around the Tissamaharama Tanks, a haven for waterbirds and migratory species. Return for dinner and an overnight stay in Tissamaharama.
Watch out for
Thissamaharama
After breakfast, embark on a jeep safari in Yala National Park to spot wildlife in their natural habitat. In the afternoon, enjoy birding around the Tissamaharama Tanks, a haven for waterbirds and migratory species. Return for dinner and an overnight stay in Tissamaharama.
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Thissamaharama to Surrey Estate to Nuwara-Eliya
After breakfast, leave for Nuwara Eliya, stopping to explore Surrey Estate en route. The estate offers beautiful scenery and opportunities to spot birds in a plantation setting. In the afternoon, head to Victoria Park for birding among its gardens and lakes. Return to Nuwara Eliya for dinner and an overnight stay.
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Nuwara-Eliya
Start very early in the morning for a visit to Horton Plains National Park, enjoying a picnic breakfast amidst stunning landscapes. Spend the afternoon birding around the Nuwara Eliya area, exploring its cool-climate habitats. Return to town for dinner and an overnight stay in Nuwara Eliya.
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Nuwara-Eliya to Kandy
After breakfast, depart for Kandy, enjoying scenic views along the way. In the afternoon, visit the Royal Botanical Gardens at Peradeniya, known for its diverse flora and birdlife. Spend time exploring the peaceful gardens. Return for dinner and an overnight stay in Kandy.
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Kandy to Katunayake
After breakfast, enjoy a morning visit to Udawattakele Sanctuary, a forest reserve rich in birdlife and history, located just above Kandy. Walk through its shaded trails in search of forest species and enjoy peaceful views of the city below. In the afternoon, depart for a hotel near Bandaranaike International Airport, where you’ll have access to a changing room and time to relax. Enjoy a farewell dinner before your late-night transfer to the airport for departure.
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